Benzo Abuse in Philadelphia, PA
Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are a class of drugs commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. However, they are highly addictive and can have dangerous side effects, including overdose.
Philadelphia has one of the highest rates of benzodiazepine overdose deaths in the United States. In 2021, there were over 500 benzodiazepine overdose deaths in Philadelphia. This is a significant increase from 2019 when there were just over 300 benzodiazepine overdose deaths.
The increased benzodiazepine overdose deaths in Philadelphia is a major public health crisis. It is essential to raise awareness of the dangers of benzo addiction and to make treatment available to everyone who needs it.
UNISON Rehab offers comprehensive and personalized benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Philadelphia. Our treatment programs are designed to help you break free from benzo addiction and achieve long-term recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our Benzo rehab programs and to schedule a free consultation.
What are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders and panic attacks, act on the central nervous system to produce sedation and muscle control relaxation. However, their impact isn’t limited to treating anxiety. They are also used in managing alcohol withdrawal and certain other conditions. Despite their medical applications, these prescription drugs can lead to benzo addiction when not taken as prescribed or abused.
Characteristics of Benzodiazepine Addiction
Individuals who begin taking benzos beyond their prescribed dosage or without a valid prescription can develop a substance use disorder. Over time, a physical dependence emerges, and benzo withdrawal symptoms become pronounced if they attempt to quit. Withdrawal symptoms, ranging from anxiety spikes to dangerous outcomes, underscore the potency and grip of benzodiazepine addiction.
Why Are Benzos Addictive?
Benzodiazepines influence the central nervous system in a way that can lead to feelings of relaxation and calm. However, the same dose might become less effective over time, leading some individuals to take more medication to achieve the same effect. This increased consumption can pave the way for benzo addiction, making it a challenging mental health disorder. The compounding danger of mixing benzos with other drugs, including alcohol, can lead to severe complications and even fatality.
Signs and Symptoms of Benzo Addiction
Recognizing Benzo abuse early is critical for seeking timely and effective treatment.
Here’s a list of common signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction:
Increased Tolerance
As the body becomes accustomed to the drug, individuals may require more to achieve the same calming or sedative effects, escalating their doses over time.
Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms
When not consuming benzos, individuals might face symptoms like shaky muscle control, intensified anxiety, sleep disturbances, and an overwhelming urge to consume more, indicating physical dependence.
Mental Health Issues
The onset or exacerbation of mental health disorders, such as depression or heightened anxiety, can signal an imbalance caused or intensified by benzodiazepine use.
Obsession with Securing More Medication
A constant preoccupation with obtaining, using, and recovering from benzos can dominate individuals’ thoughts, often leading them to go to extreme lengths to secure the drug.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Benzo abuse can lead individuals to overlook critical responsibilities in their personal, professional, or academic lives, causing a noticeable decline in performance and reliability.
Secretive Behavior
Individuals might start hiding their drug use, lying about the quantity they’re consuming, or being elusive about their whereabouts, pointing to an awareness of their problematic behavior.
Physical Dependence
An overwhelming feeling of needing Benzos to function normally in daily life, where the absence of the drug can cause physical discomfort or cognitive impairments
Co-occurring Disorders
The simultaneous presence of substance abuse and mental health disorders suggests that benzos might be used to self-medicate other underlying issues.
Changing Appearance
A noticeable decline in personal grooming, hygiene, and general appearance due to prioritizing drug use over self-care
Dangerous Outcomes
Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence, such as driving, making impulsive decisions, or combining benzos with other drugs or alcohol, amplifies potential dangers.
Recognizing these signs is a vital first step in identifying a potential addiction. At UNISON Rehab, we ensure that every subsequent step on your recovery journey is grounded in evidence-based care, compassionate support, and a commitment to your lifelong well-being.
Benzo addiction, while challenging, doesn’t define a person. At UNISON Rehab, our array of treatment options and commitment to each individual’s well-being underscores our belief in the possibility of a brighter, addiction-free future. Whether seeking treatment for yourself or supporting a loved one, trust in our expertise to guide your recovery process.
how it works
Benzo Addiction Treatment Process
Understanding the path to recovery can make the journey feel more manageable. At UNISON Rehab, we have systematically designed a phased treatment process that caters to the holistic needs of our patients.
Assessment & Planning
Our initial approach is grounded in thorough assessment. We delve deep into understanding the history of Benzo abuse, co-occurring mental health disorders, and the individual’s overall health. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to craft personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and challenges.
Detoxification
The process of benzodiazepine withdrawal can be complex and challenging. Our medical detox procedures ensure that patients experience withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment. Under the watchful eyes of medical professionals, the detox process prioritizes the safety and well-being of the patient, preparing them physically and mentally for the therapeutic phase.
Intensive Therapy
Beyond the physical dependence on benzodiazepines, there’s often a deeply rooted emotional and psychological tether. We address these facets through group therapy sessions, individual therapy, and family therapy. Our therapeutic activities, including art therapy, are designed to unearth underlying issues, provide coping mechanisms, and instill skills for maintaining sobriety.
Assessment & Planning
Our initial approach is grounded in thorough assessment. We delve deep into understanding the history of Benzo abuse, co-occurring mental health disorders, and the individual’s overall health. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to craft personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and challenges.
Detoxification
The process of benzodiazepine withdrawal can be complex and challenging. Our medical detox procedures ensure that patients experience withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment. Under the watchful eyes of medical professionals, the detox process prioritizes the safety and well-being of the patient, preparing them physically and mentally for the therapeutic phase.
Intensive Therapy
Beyond the physical dependence on benzodiazepines, there’s often a deeply rooted emotional and psychological tether. We address these facets through group therapy sessions, individual therapy, and family therapy. Our therapeutic activities, including art therapy, are designed to unearth underlying issues, provide coping mechanisms, and instill skills for maintaining sobriety.
Experience compassionate, expert benzodiazepine addiction treatment at UNISON Rehab. We believe in empowering individuals with top-tier care and supporting them on their journey to a benzo-free life. Our comprehensive insurance assistance helps streamline your recovery process so you can focus on healing.
